Manila Water supports move to tap into more sources; backs water security

This undated photo shows the intake facility of the Cardona Water Treatment Plant. The Manila Water continues to closely work with the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and National Water Resources Board (NWRB) in developing new water sources even as the agencies have approved the implementation of the much-needed interim additional sources. These include the maximization of the 100 million-liter-per-day (MLD) capacity of the Cardona Water Treatment Plant, which draws water from Laguna Lake. Contributed photo

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Water on Monday said it supports the government’s effort in developing water sources as it moves toward long-term water security.

“Water security is at the core of our operations, not only during summer months when we contend with Angat Dam’s lower-than-projected levels while ensuring our customers do not experience interrupted supply, but all year round to achieve our water supply sustainability targets. We at Manila Water continue to work toward water security,” said Manila Water President and CEO Jocot De Dios.

Water supply contingency and augmentation plans constitute part of Metro Manila’s East Zone concessionaire, the water company noted.

De Dios said Manila Water continues to closely work with the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and National Water Resources Board (NWRB) in developing new water sources even as the agencies have approved the implementation of the much-needed interim additional sources, especially as the summer peaks.

These include the maximization of the 100 million-liter-per-day (MLD) capacity of the Cardona Water Treatment Plant, which draws water from Laguna Lake; operation of deep wells that can provide an additional 115 MLD; and operation of the 20-MLD Marikina Portable Water Treatment Plant, which can treat water from the Marikina River.

De Dios has expressed gratitude to the MWSS and its Board for approving these projects as well as the NWRB for allowing them to harness groundwater through deep wells as part of their contingency and augmentation measures while waiting for long-term water sources.

Moreover, Manila Water will be implementing operational adjustments, such as backwash recovery or re-treating the wastewater byproduct of the water treatment process while ensuring the efficiency of its network distribution, maximizing its distribution reservoirs and operating line boosters so that water supply continues to reach elevated and far-flung areas of the concession.

Harnessing additional inflows to the La Mesa Reservoir from the nearby Alat Dam is also being eyed.

Implementing water supply contingency measures, tapping into additional water sources, and promoting responsible use of water, while working with the concerned agencies as well as partners, are part of Manila Water’s holistic effort in working for lasting water security.

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